Stage 4 of the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes will present a fascinating tactical challenge as the peloton travels 167.4 kilometers from Le Puy-en-Velay to Montrond-les-Bains on Tuesday. With 2,111 meters of elevation gain packed into the opening 100 kilometers, followed by a flat 60-kilometer run to the finish, this stage will test the climbing legs of sprinters and the endurance of pure speed merchants alike.

Challenging Route Profile

The stage will begin at 13:05 with riders immediately facing six categorized climbs in the first two-thirds of the race. This front-loaded difficulty will likely see aggressive racing from breakaway specialists and climbers looking to distance the pure sprinters early. However, the completely flat final 60 kilometers to Montrond-les-Bains should allow organized chase groups to reel in any remaining escapees, setting up a potential bunch sprint finish between 16:58 and 17:20.

Del Toro’s Stage 4 Ambitions

UAE Team Emirates’ Isaac del Toro will be a key figure to watch throughout Tuesday’s stage. The Mexican rider possesses the climbing ability to survive the early mountainous terrain while maintaining enough speed for a potential sprint finish. Del Toro’s tactical awareness will be crucial in positioning himself correctly through the six climbs, ensuring he remains in contention when the race reaches the flat roads leading into Montrond-les-Bains.

The stage profile suits riders who can handle sustained climbing efforts before transitioning to high-speed racing on flat terrain. Del Toro’s versatility makes him a genuine contender for stage victory, provided UAE Team Emirates can control the tempo through the climbs and deliver him to the final kilometers in optimal position.

Key Rivals and Race Dynamics

The unique stage profile will attract interest from multiple rider categories. Pure climbers may attempt long-range attacks on the early ascents, while climbing sprinters like del Toro will aim to survive the mountains before unleashing their speed on the flat finale. Traditional sprinters who can handle moderate climbing will also fancy their chances if they can limit their losses on the six categorized climbs.

Team tactics will prove decisive, with squads needing to balance supporting climbers through the early terrain while preserving firepower for a potential sprint finish. The 60-kilometer flat section provides ample opportunity for organized chasing, making breakaway success unlikely unless a strong group establishes a significant advantage over the climbs.

Stage 4 promises compelling racing as the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes continues to showcase the diverse terrain of this beautiful region.